These federally funded grants assist youth in the transition to independent living while funding their educational and training courses. The grant is given to California residents but can be used for any school. It awards up to $5,000 annually and does not need to be paid back. Applicants who qualify must have been wards of the state between the ages of 16 and 19. They must also prove financial need by having the school release a need-analysis report.
California Student Aid Commission
Specialized Programs Operations Branch
California Chafee Grant Program
P.O. Box 419029
Rancho Cordova, CA 95741-9029
888-224-7268
www.chafee.csac.ca.gov
The Education Training Voucher program provides grants for youth to pay for higher education in different states. To be eligible, students need only to demonstrate that they have been or are in foster care. The grant is funded by the federal government and administered by the respective state government. Grants for eligible students can reach $5,000 annually.
For more information, contact the college you plan to attend. The Orphan Foundation of America at Statevoucher.org administers the ETV for Alabama, Arkansas, Colorado, Indiana, Maryland, Missouri, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, and Washington, D.C. However, the grant is also administered in other states through different agencies.
Orphan Foundation of America
21351 Gentry Drive,?Suite 130
Sterling, VA 20166
571-203-0270
orphan.org
In Washington state, the Governor's Scholarship targets children in foster care and helps them complete their higher education. The scholarship is funded from the proceeds of the Governor's Cup and serves 40 new scholars every year. Each student is awarded between $2,000 and $4,000. The scholarship is renewable annually.
The College Success Foundations
1605 NW Sammamish Road, Suite 200
Issaquah, WA 98027
425-416-2000
collegesuccessfoundation.org